Where To Visit Lake Superior
One of the largest and most impressive freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Superior is renowned for its beauty, and the opportunities it provides for visitors. Stretching the entirety of the north shore of Minnesota, the lake is home to hundreds of islands, gorgeous beaches, and some of the best fishing spots in the United States.
As one of the five Great Lakes of North America, Lake Superior’s shoreline alone is over 2,000 miles long and touches parts of both Canada and the United States. Its waters stretch an impressive 140 miles wide and more than 1,200 feet deep, making it larger by surface area than any other lake in the world.
Lake Superior is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, whether they’re anglers, boaters, hikers, or birdwatchers. The lake provides plenty of opportunity for exploration, with pristine beaches and forests, miles of shoreline to explore, and plenty of wildlife to observe. From the fishing villages along the shore, to the sunsets reflected on the lake’s beautiful, crystal-clear waters, visitors will find plenty of stunning sights to behold.
As far as activities go, there is something for all sorts of visitors on Lake Superior. Boating, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, swimming and sailing are all popular recreational activities, as are bird and wildlife watching. Visitors have the chance to spot bald eagles, herons, loons, and pelicans flying above the surface, as well as the occasional moose or bear wandering along the shore.
For the sportsman, Lake Superior is also one of the best places in the U.S. to fish for Salmon and Trout. In fact, the lake has some of the longest seasons for non-native game fish, as well as some of the greatest populations of native fish. Home to seven species of game fish, Lake Superior is an angler’s paradise.
For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking trails, camping spots, and charming cabins dotted along the lake shores. Visitors can adventure through the forests of Isle Royale National Park, or catch breathtaking views of the lake from the historic lighthouses along the shoreline. Plus, the lake is home to a number of vibrant cities, offering a variety of attractions like museums, galleries, and shopping.
No matter what brings a visitor to Lake Superior, there is no shortage of things to do and see for all sorts of travelers. From spectacular scenery to outdoor recreation and plenty of history, visitors are sure to find something that speaks to them on this beautiful lake.
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular activities on Lake Superior and with the variety of fish available, it’s no wonder why. Salmon, trout and walleye can all be caught by anglers in the lake if you know where to look. There are a number of fishing charters that can take you to all the hot spots, as well as plenty of options for anglers to wade in and reel in their catches.
As one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Superior is home to seven species of game fish and the longest season on non-native game fish in the U.S. This makes it the perfect place for both beginners and experienced anglers alike. The waters are home to numerous shipwrecks and islands, which create various habitats that attract different kinds of fish, offering something for nearly every angler.
Whether you plan to wade in or take advantage of a fishing charter, it’s always important to remember that each species of fish has its own set of size and possession limits. Be sure to read them carefully so you can stay on the right side of the law, and ensure plenty of future trips for everyone.
Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale is an archipelago of islands located in the central part of Lake Superior, and is home to Isle Royale National Park. The island has very few permanent inhabitants, and the area designated by the park is nearly as wild and natural as it was before Europeans visited the region. There are over 300 islands and islets, numerous lakes and ponds, and a variety of wildlife to explore.
The park contains some of the best examples of taiga boreal forest in North America, with over 1,500 moose and hundreds of wolves that can be seen during the summer months. In addition to the incredible wildlife, hikers and campers alike can explore numerous softwood forests, shoreline beaches, deep sheltered bays, and the extensive beach run by the lake.
The park also offers excellent opportunities for kayakers who can explore the archipelago’s hidden coves and channels. From coast to coast, the island of Isle Royale offers a variety of outdoor activities for every type of outdoor enthusiast. From hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching, to fishing, head to the park for an unforgettable experience.
Lighthouses
Another great experience when visiting Lake Superior is admiring the majestic lighthouses that are dotted along its shoreline. Each with its own unique history and story to tell, these beacons of light have been guiding ships since the late 19th century and are now a part of the region’s beautiful view.
The Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the most renowned light stations on Lake Superior. Situated on a rocky cliff that juts out into the lake, it has been a beacon of hope for seafarers for decades. The lighthouse is now a museum that shows visitors a glimpse into the life of a light keeper and the culture of the area.
The marker was built after a fierce storm ravaged the lake in 1905, known as the ‘White Hurricane’. The lighthouse was built as an early warning system of dangerous storms and to direct ships safely away from shore. Visitors can head to the nearby visitor center to learn more about the lighthouses and enjoy the view of Lake Superior and its majestic lighthouse.
Cruises
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the lake, consider taking a cruise. Cruises depart from various ports along Lake Superior and offer passengers a chance to get up close and personal with the lake, its shoreline, and its numerous islands.
cruises offer an opportunity to explore the lake in style. Step aboard the lake cruise to get a one-of-a-kind experience, as you cruise along the crystal blue waters, explore islands, and stop in remote ports. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the lake, its wildlife and its impressive shoreline.
Experience the beauty of Lake Superior from a different perspective and create a memorable vacation experience. There are countless cruise options available for visitors, so you’re sure to find something that suits your interest and budget.
Attractions
For those who love to explore the cultural side of a place, Lake Superior boasts plenty of attractions that are worth a visit. From educational experiences, such as The Great Lakes Aquarium, to unique attractions like The Soudan Underground Mine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Great Lakes Aquarium, located in Duluth, Minnesota, offers visitors a unique chance to explore the undersea world of Lake Superior and learn about the creatures that inhabit its waters. The aquarium has over 6,000 freshwater species from around the world including some of the lake’s most famous inhabitants, like the lake sturgeon and lake trout.
Meanwhile, The Soudan Underground Mine is a National Historic Landmark and Minnesota’s oldest iron ore mine. Millions of years of erosion have created spectacular formations and natural chambers for visitors to explore, and the site also offers a guided tour of the mine, led by a former miner who worked the site for 20 years.
Cities
Lake Superior is also home to some of the most vibrant cities in the country. Starting with Duluth, an up-and-coming city that’s full of energy, and ending with Thunder Bay, Ontario – an eclectic city with a lot of character – there are plenty of experiences to be had in and around Lake Superior’s urban areas.
Duluth has some of the best attractions in the state with its museums, galleries, and stunning views of Lake Superior. The city is also home to some of the best restaurants, breweries, and music venues in the area. Plus, Duluth was recently voted one of the top ten cities for visitors in the U.S according to Forbes Magazine.
Thunder Bay is another popular city in the region. With its heritage and vibrant art and music scene, Thunder Bay is the cultural hub on the north shore. Here visitors will find culture at its best with an abundance of entertainment, from theatre and music, to an array of restaurants and pubs.
No matter what brings you to Lake Superior, its urban areas are sure to provide a range of experiences for all kinds of travellers.
